Taliban Leader Reportedly Cut Off His Troops

At present, Taliban spiritual leader Mullah Mohammad Omar who is currently hiding in an unknown place, has lost connection with his commanders and troops, the Frontier Post reported quoting diplomatic sources. According to the newspaper, Omar is now greatly dependent on Osama bin Laden's personal guard consisting of Arab mercenaries, and their loyalty. According to its data, the strength of this most combat-ready element of Taliban forces comprises some 8,000 - 10,000 men. At the same time, the newspaper reported that Mullah Omar addressed on Wednesday his followers with the appeal "to wage the war against infidels till the last man standing." The aforementioned radio address coincided with the American bombing raid on Taliban positions located to the north of Kabul in the vicinity of the Bagram Air Force base. The Frontier Post alleges that five prominent field commanders of the Northern Alliance are ready to move over to the Taliban side in order to protect Afghanistan from foreign aggression if American commandos start the land operation. The names of these commanders and the strength of their units remain unclear yet.